From the Seed to Eternity: William Blake, Mantak Chia and the Sexual Basis of Mystical Vision

Date of Award

2009

Degree Name

Master of Philosophy (MPhil)

Schools and Centres

Philosophy and Theology

First Supervisor

Dr Anthony Imbrosciano & Joseph Naimo

Abstract

This thesis argues that for the two chosen mystics, Mantak Chia (Taoist) and William Blake (Christian), sexual feeling (energy) is vital for developing the mystical consciousness necessary to arrive at an end state of ‘unity’. Their alchemical systems are broken down into a tripartite model that represents the whole person. Both tripartite models incorporate the brain, heart and sexual regions. Ultimately, this thesis shows that within their alchemical systems, sexual feelings play a role as a vital ingredient, starting point and catalyst in producing the end state of 'unity'. This conclusion is based on a critical comparative analysis of their respective practices and poetry using primary accounts and secondary literary sources. The thesis also comments briefly on the implications of their systems for an aspirant leading a chaste or married life.

Comments

This Thesis has since been published as:

Andrew Jan, The Sexual Basis of Mystical Vision: An analysis of William Blake versus Mantak Chia in how they sublimate sexual feelings to achieve mystical consciousness, Lambert Academic Publishing, Saarbrücken, Germany, 2010.

ISBN: 978-3838386911

Due to copyright restrictions this book is unavailable for download.

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